Shelter Dog Realities

Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. As a professional dog trainer and breeder, I have seen the shortcomings of the system and have developed strong opinions. While I will discuss these issues in a future blog post, today I want to focus on the potential challenges of adopting a shelter dog. There may be no history of health issues or genetic defects, but adopting a dog without this knowledge can be risky. While I have rescued dogs with no health issues, others have not been so lucky, experiencing costly health problems such as diabetes, allergies, and hip dysplasia. Proper care and love for your dog can lead to significant expenses in addressing health issues. Many of these conditions necessitate lifelong treatment, like insulin shots and special food for a dog with diabetes, as seen in my client's case. Similarly, a friend's dog with genetic hip defects incurred substantial healthcare costs before it had to be put down. Shelter dogs often have such genetic disorders due to irresponsible breeding practices. To reduce the likelihood of health problems, it is advisable to obtain a dog from a reputable breeder who conducts DNA health testing and obtains clearances for hip, elbow, heart, and eye issues. If you opt for a rescue dog, it is essential to physically inspect for signs of any potential health issues such as allergies and hip problems. Upon bringing your dog home, ordering a DNA health test would also be beneficial.  Early diagnosis and treatment could save your dog a lot of future suffering and you financially. If you decide to adopt, it is crucial to be financially prepared for potential health issues.  

Additionally, many shelter dogs have ingrained behavioral problems due to a lack of training, socialization, poor genetics and abuse. These issues can be overwhelming and even dangerous. Problems like aggression, resource guarding, jumping, barking, and timidness can overwhelm and put you and your family at risk if you are not equipped with the necessary skills to address them. For instance, a client of mine adopted a large breed puppy with aggressive tendencies that eventually bit a small child in the face, causing immense pain. Similarly, another client rescued a twenty pound mixed breed that showed aggressive and dominant behavior toward her, leading to multiple bites. It is not uncommon for such issues to surface weeks after bringing the rescue home. Some dogs may have experienced excessive abuse in the past, leading to timid behavior and a high likelihood of running away out of fear. Recovering a timid dog can be challenging due to their fear of new environments. These examples highlight the importance of understanding the potential behavioral issues that may arise with shelter dogs.

Adopting a shelter dog can be a noble and rewarding experience, but it is important to be prepared for potential health and behavioral issues. It is crucial to be financially and mentally prepared to provide the necessary care and resources for the dog's well-being. While the dogs are not at fault for their circumstances, it is important to recognize that they are a product of the system and irresponsible owners.